INTERPOL Operation Targets Nigerian And West African Crime Syndicates, Seizes $3 Million In Assets

In a sweeping international crackdown on West African organiz=sed crime groups, INTERPOL’s “Operation Jackal III” has led to the arrest of over 300 individuals, including members of the notorious Black Axe syndicate. The operation, which took place from April 10 to July 3, 2024, involved coordinated efforts across 21 countries on five continents, resulting in the seizure of assets worth approximately million and the dismantling of several criminal networks.

The Black Axe group, a prominent West African transnational crime syndicate, is known for its involvement in cyber fraud, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and violent crimes both within Africa and globally. The recent operation targeted these criminal activities, particularly focusing on online financial fraud.

During the operation, authorities identified over 400 additional suspects and blocked more than 720 bank accounts linked to the criminal networks. Isaac Oginni, Director of INTERPOL’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre (IFCACC), emphasized the significance of international cooperation in combating these extensive and growing criminal activities.

“The volume of financial fraud stemming from West Africa is alarming and increasing. This operation’s results underscore the critical need for international law enforcement collaboration to combat these extensive criminal networks. By identifying suspects, recovering illicit funds, and putting some of West Africa’s most dangerous organized crime leaders behind bars, we are able to weaken their influence and reduce their capacity to harm communities around the world,” Oginni stated.

Key successes of the operation include the dismantling of a Nigerian-led transnational criminal network in Argentina after a five-year investigation. This effort led to the seizure of million in counterfeit currency, the arrest of 72 suspects, and the freezing of around 100 bank accounts. The network, linked to financial losses for over 160 victims, is under investigation in more than 40 countries.

In Switzerland, law enforcement officials cracked down on West African organized crime syndicates, seizing cocaine, cash, and arresting multiple suspects. Meanwhile, in Portugal, authorities dismantled a Nigerian network involved in money mule recruitment and money laundering. This network was found to have complex financial operations involving cryptocurrency transactions.

The operation was a collaborative effort, supported by INTERPOL and involving police forces, financial intelligence units, and private sector partners from countries including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Nigeria, South Africa, and the United States. The success of Operation Jackal III highlights the critical importance of global cooperation in the fight against transnational organized crime.